Kishan Devani is a 31 year old Politician, Speaker, and International Business Consultant for an International Wealth Management Firm. He was also a Director of a Specialist SEN School The Woodfield School in London. He is the Lead Proposer and Founder of GATES Academy a Free School proposed to open in 2017 in London (subject to approval).
He is the currently the Deputy Chairman (Membership and Finance) of the Entire London Conservative Party. He also sits on the National Association Finance Board of the Conservative Party. In addition to this he is the Chairman of Conservative Way Forward's Treasurers Committee. He stood for Parliament in 2015 for the Constituency of Leicester East and has previously stood for Council elections in 2014.
Kishan was also a candidate on the Conservative London-Wide List for the Greater London Assembly elections in May 2016.
1. What is your current position?
Deputy Chairman (Membership & Finance) of the entire London Conservative party (73 Constituencies) & GLA London-Wide List Candidate.
2. What are your proudest achievements?
While I practiced as a Teacher (before joining the world of Finance), I taught many people students who have now completed University and become successful people in their own right, as Lawyers/Doctors etc. Seeing their successes have been most definitely one of my most proudest moments. Also being a Lead proposer/Co- Founder of a Free School which is going to be set up in Hillingdon by 2017 (subject to approval).
3. What inspires you?
Humility, Dedication, Social Justice, Making a difference, Culture and British Values.
4. What has been the biggest obstacle in your career?
Before entering the world of Finance and becoming a Business Consultant for an International Wealth Management Firm, I practiced as a Religious Studies Teacher. Working with young minds has to have been one of the most challenging and rewarding things I have ever done. Teaching is one of the most noble professions in the world and to have been part of that was truly an honour and privilege. I have been lucky to have met some great people in both fields which has allowed me to enjoy both careers with a passion. Of course both have had their tribulations and enjoyment, which are part and parcel of life. Hard work, dedication and a 24/7 work ethos is vital for both in my experience.
5. Who has been the biggest on your career to date?
I have to say this question is three fold. Politically I would have to say Margaret Thatcher (and as a Cameron supporter of course David!), Socially the Great Man Mahatma Gandhi, and on a more personal note - my Family. All have inspired me in different ways, from being dedicated, passionate, conviction led, loyal and committed to their cause.
6. What is the best aspect about you current role?
As Deputy Chairman of the London Conservative party it is an absolute pleasure for me to be able to meet such amazing people within the Conservative party and in the general public. Who are committed to their causes and passionate about what they do. To be able work with such people has been a learning experience and life enriching experience. Being a GLA candidate has also allowed me to work closely with our fantastic London Mayoral Candidate - Zac Goldsmith MP, which in itself has been exciting. The ability to be able to affect change in the community has to be the most rewarding aspect of what we do as politicians.
7. And the worst?
Haven't really had an experience of that! Maybe you should ask me that - if and when I become am an MP!
8. What are your long term goals?
In the General Election campaign I was asked this by the Secretary of State for Education - to which I replied to Rt Hon Nicky Morgan MP - 'Your Job!'. I would like to serve the various communities that make Britain what it is today. Whether I do that from the Green Benches or not - only time will tell. For me serving the people supersedes everything else.
9. If you were Prime Minister, what one aspect would you change?
I believe David Cameron has done an excellent job as Prime Minister and hence we were returned with a Majoirty Conservative Government in May. I do believe I would like to see more done to build the community spirit in our nation, in order to promote more integration between communities. This idea of community cohesion and the development of it, would have a positive impact on all part's of our lives - from social issues to the economy.
10. If you were marooned on a desert island, which historical figure would you like to spend your time with and why?
It would have to be Winston Churchill - his Leadership, political career and general persona fascinate me and commentators all over the world. It would be quite an experience to say the least!
